Change Starts With You: 9 Quotes From ‘Zootopia’ That Taught Us Everything About Life

Just like its predecessor Frozen, Disney’s Zootopia has crossed the $1 billion mark at the worldwide box office last week. And what makes its achievements even more impressive is that Zootopia, in an era of franchises, sequels and reboots, is an original story. While it’s certainly and references, there’s no fairytale or comic book where the adventures of Judy and Nick first originated — it’s all coming from the minds of the Zootopia team. The movie is now the after James Cameron’s Avatar (not taking inflation into account).

The story of a fearless bunny named Judy Hopps, whose lifelong dream is to become a cop in the capital city despite her entourage reminding her constantly that bunnies are meant to be farmers and predators are more apt to be cops, sends a strong message of self-acceptance and tolerance. It’s the perfect inter-generational movie as it’s cute and political at the same time, fluffy in appearance but .

From following your dreams to being a good friend, there’s a lot to learn from Zootopia: Here are 9 quotes that can inspire all of us, every day.

1. Life’s Complicated

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

From afar, Zootropolis looked like the perfect city, but when Judy Hopps found herself alone in a crappy little room, she started having serious doubts. Still, she didn’t turn around, because she knows that sometimes, things just don’t work out the way you hoped they would.

2. Don’t Sit Around Hoping Magic Will Save The Day

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Behind his grumpy attitude, Chief Bogo is actually one of the wisest cops in Zootopia. He’s probably been through a lot, and he knows being a cop isn’t always an epic tale about saving the world.

3. Know Your Limits

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Chief Bogo knows the difference between a naive dream and realistic goals. It’s fantastic to have a dream, but any improbable dream won’t cut it: If you know your limits, you’ll be less likely to aim for the wrong thing.

4. Team Work Is Crucial

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Sure, a lot of times you’ll think you’re the best person for the job, but Judy Hopps knows the difference that a trusting relationship can make. She might not have gotten off to the best start with conman Nick Wilde, but she’s capable of admitting that she needs help.

5. Don’t Let Others Take You Down

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

This quote can be interpreted in different ways. Is Nick repressing something, or is he just talking about not giving his bullies the pleasure of hurting him? If you look at it the latter way, there’s a sweet life lesson right there: People who annoy you will eventually get tired of it if they don’t feel like it’s working.

6. Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Judy’s honesty means that she’s also quick to take the blame if something went wrong. Thankfully Chief Bogo is here to remind her that you can’t carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Doing your best is all you need!

7. Don’t Judge A Book By Its Cover

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Sloths are indeed slow, but Nick’s pointing out something relevant here, which is to not make assumptions based on a person’s looks. Flash may be slow, but he’s happy to help — and he owns a racing car.

8. It’s OK To Be A Jerk — Once In A While

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

This one’s a little less on the bright side of inspirational quotes, but life lessons should also acknowledge that anyone can be a little annoying. Sometimes, you’re having a bad day, and you’re not going to pretend to care about something if you don’t. Be honest with yourself and everyone else, at least it’ll make things easier.

9. Things Can Only Change If You Change Them

‘Zootopia’ / Disney

Last but not least, this quote sums up the strong message of Zootopia: Hoping things will change will only work if you’re capable of introspection. Thinking others are to blame will never lead anywhere, and change will only happen when you take matters in your own hands. Doesn’t that just apply to everything?

Do you feel like you learned anything from Zootopia? Which Disney movie inspired you the most?